The former West Ham United striker Carlton Cole has signed for Celtic, ending a spell of uncertainty.

The 32-year-old will play for the Scottish giants until the end of next season after he was assessed during a trial spell.

Cole, who also played for Charlton early in his career, was released by the Irons in the summer having netted three goals in 26 appearances the previous season. He spent nine years at Upton Park scoring 85 goals in 384 games and making seven England appearances.

His last few years at the club were unsettled. He was linked with several clubs, including Liverpool and was released in 2013 only to be re-signed a few months later when Andy Carroll’s injury problems began to take their toll and the club were concerned about upfront cover.